JETSTAR will launch a direct route between Newcastle and Denpasar (Bali) from 21 October.
Denpasar is a major international aviation hub offering connections to over 40 countries.
The service is set to be run three times a week, and will be the first international route offered from Newcastle’s new international terminal.
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said the route will open the Hunter and the Mid-North Coast to a “major South-East Asian transport hub and a wealth of opportunity”.
“The first ongoing international flight for Newcastle Airport is a significant moment for the region’s visitor economy – and we’re only just getting started,” he said.
Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington believes the move will facilitate “visitors from around the world” experiencing the Hunter region.
Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton told News Of The Area, “This route reflects what’s possible when industry and government work together to back regional growth.
“We thank the NSW Government for their partnership in making this international connection a reality for the Hunter region and the Federal Government for supporting the build of our international terminal.
“Bali is one of Australia’s most loved destinations and is the first of many exciting destinations we will deliver.”
Jetstar Group CEO Stephanie Tully said the new international route is an “exciting milestone as Jetstar continues to significantly expand its network”.
“We’re thrilled to be the airline to launch Newcastle’s first international flights in more than five years with our new direct service from Newcastle to Bali,” she said.
The route is backed by the NSW Government’s Aviation Attraction Fund.
Managed by Destination NSW on behalf of the NSW Government, the Fund offered financial incentives and marketing support to assist NSW airports to secure routes and increase aviation capacity to the state.
Applications for the fund were open between February 2022 and June 2023.
